A unique photo-dating tool – the first of its kind in Australia – is set to transform the way genealogists and family historians trace their ancestors.
The History Council of NSW is proud to announce its auspicing of Inside History magazine’s new project. In partnership with the State Library of NSW, Inside History will create a dynamic and freely accessible website to assist users in dating family photographs based on the subject’s style and dress.
“Our readers commonly request help with identifying when family pictures were made,” says Inside History editor Cassie Mercer. “With funding support from Arts NSW, we’re thrilled to be working with the State Library on this pioneering online tool that will provide vital information in piecing together a family history.”
Up to 200 images from the State Library’s collections (including paintings, drawings, miniatures, silhouettes, engraving and photographs,) dating from 1788 to 1955, will be arranged in a chronological timeline to form the visual centrepiece for the website.
This core set of downloadable images will be supported by an impeccably researched reference guide, developed by the State Library’s dress and cultural historian Margot Riley.
“Users will be guided through a step-by-step process of accurately dating and interpreting images through Australia’s dress history (eg. style of clothing and accessories worn, hairstyles, etc), and also by studying the detail within the portrait image (eg. backdrop used and photographic studio details) and other key factors,” says Ms Riley.
“This will be a highly anticipated resource not only for family and local historians, especially those in regional and remote areas, but also the film industry, designers, collectors, vintage clothing enthusiasts and students,” says Ms Riley, who was consulted for costume accuracy for productions like The Great Gatsby and A Place to Call Home.
According to Cassie Mercer, this much-needed public resource will hopefully encourage information exchanges between libraries, historical societies, community groups and individuals which will ultimately enhance our collective heritage.
“We have received incredible support from history societies and public libraries across the state who plan to use the new website to date photographs in their own collections and thereby increase their value to local users,” says Ms Mercer.
The new website is expected to be launched early next year, and the community will be invited to help pick the perfect name for the website. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project.
